In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with John Sutton, CEO of Journey, a groundbreaking travel loyalty program designed specifically for independent hotels and boutique properties. John shares how his decade of experience as Chief Digital Officer at Red Ventures led to the creation of Journey — a platform built to close the gap in the hospitality industry’s loyalty landscape.

The conversation explores Journey’s mission to redefine what loyalty means by emphasizing personalization, emotional connection, and direct relationships between guests and properties. From its unique Day Zero Status program and nomination-based hotel alliance to the opportunity for travelers to earn five points per dollar on stays, Journey is setting a new standard in hospitality. John also offers insights into the future of loyalty programs and how technology can make boutique hotel stays more rewarding, memorable, and human.

Key Highlights:

• Journey redefines loyalty: It’s the first program designed for independent and boutique hotels.
• John Sutton’s background: A decade at Red Ventures helped shape his vision for smarter, guest-centered travel.
• Filling the loyalty gap: Journey bridges the space between major hotel chains and smaller, independent properties.
• Emotional connection matters: The brand focuses on relationships and experiences, not just transactions.
• Nomination-based growth: Properties can join the alliance only through nomination and approval.
• Empowering travelers: Members can earn points for recommending new hotels to join the network.
• Day Zero Status: New users get instant benefits and a head start on earning rewards.
• Personalized experiences: Journey aims to create meaningful, memorable stays for each guest.
• Future focus: Expansion of properties, partnerships, and member benefits is already underway.

Resources:

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Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: 

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• Website: BoldlyGo.world
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• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with John Sutton: 

• Instagram: _johnsutton
• Check out Journey.com